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There has been much discussion raised about "Why are women leaving Architecture? and more broadly, Why is the profession losing key talent?" Both women and men practitioners are disillusioned by the myth of work/life balance: Women are grappling with "have it all" expectations of juggling family time with the demands of full-time work. Men are struggling to support their families solely on an architect's salary and fall back on asking spouses to maintain their jobs. The lack of affordable childcare and high cost of living only magnifies the challenges. How did we end up in this modern family dilemma? What can we do to improve the situation?

The #EQxDV Symposium is our most anticipated gathering of committed Champions and Change Agents from all over the United States and abroad to advance the movement for equitable practice and the future of architecture.

The framework for the #EQxDV Symposium program is defined by two anchors: presentation of the early findings of the 2018 Equity in Architecture Survey and active engagement in the form of panel discussions, break-out sessions, and networking opportunities. We are looking for Thought Leaders who are content experts, passionate advocates, and those willing to shape portions of the day’s program. As with years prior, you will, together with our leadership group, be deeply involved in the design of the day’s experience.

#EQxDV Thought Leadership Themes

We are seeking your expertise and experiences in the following focused themes for the Symposium.

Voices

To attract and retain the most diverse talent we must hear from those in practice and beyond. We need to listen to their challenges, concerns, and aspirations. With over 14,000 responses, the 2018 Equity in Architecture Survey is the largest and most comprehensive dataset of career perceptions and experiences in the industry. This unprecedented collection of professional voices is the testimony that allows us to build a deeper understanding of where we are and of the critical work needed to move forward. This year we commit to leveraging our platform to amplify all voices and create a safe space for everyone, regardless of position or identity, to speak up and be heard.

Values

Within a broad diversity of identities and experiences, we come together to find the common ground in our core values. This year we will explore how they guide us in choosing our collaborators, shaping our work culture, and cultivating our design leadership to make the most lasting impact within our communities. We will explore how we can “walk the talk” and communicate our worth as engaged citizens and as architects and leaders. Lastly, we uphold the values of equity, inclusion, dignity, and respect as an integrated approach in our design work that deeply resonates for individuals, practices, clients, and our communities.

Vision

We continue to expand our focus and explore the future of a better world. As we begin to see equitable practice in action in practices of all sizes, we can build on that reality, exploring new types of services, new relationships, new symbiotic models for work culture and life. This year we will also look beyond our workplaces and envision how equity in practice can inform our design work, aiding us in creating equitable outcomes, inclusive experiences, and dignified spaces.

SUBMITTALS - DUE JULY 6, 2018

To be considered for #EQxDV 2018 Symposium, you must submit your application by July 6, 2018. The AIASF EQxD Core Team will evaluate each submittal received and announce the final group of Thought Leaders by early August 2018.

FAQ's

A1. We ask that submissions include a minimum of 1 or maximum of 3 people that will align with the presentation style. (ie., hands on workshop w/ 1 or 2 or engaging discussion panels w/ 3 people).

Q2. What is the duration of the proposed presentation?

A2. All break out presentation sessions will be 50 to 60 minutes in duration, as such we ask that proposed sessions be delivered within this duration.

Q3. I am not a Thought Leader, but would like to participate and support the Symposium, how can I help?

A3. You don't have to be a Thought Leader to get involved for #EQxDV . Please contact us to volunteer in a variety of ways - sponsorship champion, leading dine-about groups, firm tours for out of town guests, setup, break down, social media champion, etc. There are many ways to get involved in a meaningful way.

MORE QUESTIONS?

If you have any other questions, please contact Julia Mandell, EQxD Symposium Chair, by sending an email to julia.v.mandell@gmail.com